Smart headlamp system using infrared sensing

ABSTRACT

A smart headlamp system and methods of use thereof are provided herein. A computer-implemented method includes automatically measuring orientation values attributed to a lighting system device worn by a human user, wherein the lighting system device comprises one or more lighting sources and one or more infrared radiation sensors; automatically measuring infrared radiation values detected within a given proximity of the lighting system device; and automatically modulating one or more of the lighting sources based at least in part on (i) the measured orientation values and (ii) the measured infrared radiation values.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/402,592, filed May 3, 2019, entitled “SmartHeadlamp System,” and claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 62/733,272, filed Sep. 19, 2018, each incorporated by referenceherein.

FIELD

The field relates generally to illumination technology, and moreparticularly to headlamp technology.

BACKGROUND

Headlamps are commonly used in many contexts, such as mining,firefighting, mountain climbing, camping, night-fishing, etc. However,when using conventional headlamps, a consistent issue exists in thatusers easily and/or routinely shine the light of their headlamps intothe eyes of the other users. Being temporarily blinded and/or distractedby a headlamp can be annoying and/or potentially dangerous for a varietyof users such as firefighters, industrial workers, climbers, etc.

Accordingly, a need exists for a headlamp solution that avoids thesedirectional illumination issues.

SUMMARY

Illustrative embodiments of the invention provide a smart headlampsystem using infrared (IR) sensing and methods of use thereof. Anexemplary computer-implemented method includes automatically measuringorientation values attributed to a lighting system device worn by ahuman user, wherein the lighting system device comprises one or morelighting sources and one or more infrared radiation sensors.Additionally, such a method also includes automatically measuringinfrared radiation values detected within a given proximity of thelighting system device, and automatically modulating one or more of thelighting sources based at least in part on (i) the measured orientationvalues and (ii) the measured infrared radiation values.

An exemplary apparatus can include one or more lighting sources, one ormore power sources, one or more orientation sensors, one or moreinfrared radiation sensors, at least one memory, and at least oneprocessor operably coupled to the at least one memory, the one or moreorientation sensors and the one or more infrared radiation sensors. Insuch an apparatus, the at least one processor is configured forautomatically measuring, via the one or more orientation sensors,orientation values attributed to the apparatus; automatically measuring,via the one or more infrared radiation sensors, infrared radiationvalues detected within a given proximity of the apparatus; andautomatically modulating one or more of the lighting sources based onthe measured orientation values and the measured infrared radiationvalues.

Illustrative embodiments can provide significant advantages relative toconventional headlamps. For example, challenges associated with shininglight into another person's eyes during an interaction are overcomethrough automatically modifying the intensity level of light beingemitted by a headlamp based on the head inclination of the wearing user,facilitating such interactions with other individuals as well asactivities not involving other humans.

These and other illustrative embodiments described herein include,without limitation, methods, apparatus, networks, systems andprocessor-readable storage media.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a smart headlamp system in an exampleembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams illustrating side angles of a smartheadlamp system in an example embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of smart headlampsystem hardware components in an example embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a side angle of a smart headlamp systemin an example embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are diagrams illustrating transparent views of sideangles of a smart headlamp system in an example embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating exploded views of smart headlamp systemhardware components in an example embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of smart headlampsystem hardware components in an example embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities in anexample embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities in anexample embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities in anexample embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating positions of a smart headlamp systemalong various vectors in an example embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a process for implementing a smart headlampsystem using infrared sensing in an example embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As detailed herein, one or more embodiments of the invention include asmart headlamp system (also referred to herein as “LoBeams”) that canautomatically modify illumination intensity, directionality, and/orcolor based on headlamp orientation and infrared sensing. For example,one or more embodiments of the invention can include implementation ofan accelerometer to assist in automatically detecting when a user/wearerof a smart headlamp system positions his or her head in a manner that isindicative of looking at someone's face. In such an embodiment, thesmart headlamp system can automatically dim the headlamp illuminationlevel/intensity to avoid shining the headlight (too brightly) into theeyes of the other person. Further, such an embodiment can additionallyinclude increasing the headlamp illumination level/intensity upondetection that the user's/wearer's head position has changed in such amanner that is indicative of the user no longer looking at someone'sface (for example, the user's head is angled down indicating that theuser is looking at the ground and/or navigating, the user is looking athis or her hands, etc.).

Additionally, in connection with one or more embodiments, it is notedthat human beings emit infrared radiation via heat (e.g., body heat).Accordingly, such an embodiment includes incorporating one or morepyroelectric detectors and/or sensors to detect the likely presence ofanother human being via detection of IR radiation (e.g., associated withbody heat being emitted by another human being) within a given fieldand/or range of the lighting system device (i.e., smart headlampsystem).

Also, in at least one embodiment, one or more such pyroelectric/IRdetectors and/or sensors can be calibrated to exclusively detect aspecific band or subset of infrared radiation values (e.g., mid-infraredradiation values). Further, as additionally detailed herein, one or moreembodiments include incorporating and/or utilizing one or more IRtransmissive telescopic lenses (or lens arrays). Such a lens caninclude, for example, a high-density polyethylene optical element. Alsoor alternatively, one or more embodiments including implementing atelescopic mid-IR transmissive lens array, such an array comprisingoptical elements transmissive to infrared energy (e.g., IR energyemitted by at least one human body). Such an array of optical elementscan also narrow the field of view of the sensor and increase itssensitivity to radiation that is far away, akin to a telescope.

Accordingly, and as further detailed herein, one or more embodimentsinclude incorporating (into a smart lighting system device) the abilityto sense the presence of one or more humans within a given proximity ofthe smart lighting system device. Such an ability is implemented viaincorporation of one or more IR sensors. Such IR sensors can include,for example, sensors that can convert detection of infrared radiationvalues (e.g., mid-IR values) into electrical current. By way merely ofexample, indium and antimony (e.g., p+, p− and/or n+ doped InSb) on asilicon-gallium arsenide (SI-GaAs) substrate can be used to detect IRbecause the sensitivity of these elements overlaps with the mid-IRenergy radiated by humans.

Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the one or more IR sensorsprovide (to the smart lighting system device) a stream of IR andtemperature readings to a micro-controller unit (MCU) of the smartlighting system device. Also, in such an embodiment, one or more Fresnellenses made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other similarmaterial that allows IR energy to pass focuses the incoming energy suchthat the effective field of view of the IR sensor(s) (typicallyapproximately 50 degrees) is approximately 5 degrees or less. In atleast one embodiment, the incoming IR and/or heat energy is focused (bythe IR sensor(s)) into a field of view that matches the field of viewcorresponding to the angle of the focused beam(s) of the primarybeam(s)/light source(s) of the headlamp/smart lighting system device.

Consequently, in one or more embodiments, with the addition of the IRsensor(s), LoBeams is able to be “on” at all times except when theuser's head (that is, the head of the user wearing the headlamp) is in aneutral position (i.e., facing forward at eye-level) and another humanbeing is detected (via the one or more IR sensors) within the beam ofthe primary light source(s) of the headlamp. By way of illustration andexample, such a situation is detailed below in connection with FIG. 10.Accordingly, based at least in part on readings coming from one or moreorientation sensors as well as readings coming from the one or more IRsensors, the MCU of the smart lighting system device turns the primarylight source(s) on or off according to a set of rules (such asillustrated, for example, in FIG. 10).

By way merely of example, in settings in a temperate climate, the humanface is typically the warmest apparent area of the human body. As such,in one or more embodiments, the headlamp can continue to function (thatis, the primary light source(s) can remain on) even if the user's headis in a neutral position and a part of another human body other than theface is detected.

FIG. 1 shows a smart headlamp system 105 that in the FIG. 1 embodimentcan be implemented using at least one processing device. Each suchprocessing device can include at least one processor and at least oneassociated memory, and can implement one or more functional softwaremodules or components for controlling certain features of the smartheadlamp system 105.

In the example embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIG. 1, thesmart headlamp system 105 includes a processor 120 coupled to a memory122, light components 124 (which can include, for example, variouslight-emitting diodes (LEDs)), and a power source 126 (which caninclude, for example, one or more batteries, such as AAA batteries).

The processor 120 can include, for example, a microprocessor, amicrocontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit, afield-programmable gate array or other type of processing circuitry, aswell as portions or combinations of such circuitry elements.

The memory 122 can include, for example, random access memory (RAM),read-only memory (ROM) or other types of memory, in any combination. Thememory 122 and other memories disclosed herein can also be viewed asexamples of processor-readable storage media, which can store executablecomputer program code and/or other types of software programs.

Examples of such processor-readable storage media can include, by waymerely of example and not limitation, a storage device such as a storagedisk, a storage array or an integrated circuit containing memory, aswell as a wide variety of other types of computer program products. Theterm “processor-readable storage media” as used herein should beunderstood to exclude transitory, propagating signals.

Also associated with the smart headlamp system 105 are input-outputdevices 108, which can include, by way merely of example, keyboards,displays or other types of input-output devices in any combination. Suchinput-output devices can be used to support one or more user interfaces(UIs) to the smart headlamp system 105, as well as to supportcommunication between the smart headlamp system 105 and other relatedsystems and devices not explicitly illustrated in FIG. 1.

Referring again to the depiction of smart headlamp system 105, theprocessor 120 can also include orientation sensor 130, angle sensor 131(which can include functionality performed by a hall effect sensor and amagnet, as further detailed herein), light controller 132, and at leastone IR sensor 134. As further detailed herein, the orientation sensor130 can include, for example, one or more accelerometers, whichdetermine the orientation and/or angle of the smart headlamp system 105(which can be dictated by the head pose and/or orientation of the humanuser wearing the smart headlamp system 105). In one or more embodiments,at least two of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a magnetometer areutilized/implemented in combination (as the orientation sensor 130, forexample). An example combination of two or more of the above sensors canalso be referred to herein as an inertial measurement unit (IMU).

Additionally, the light controller 132 can activate and/or de-activateone or more of the light components 124 (such as LEDs) based on themeasurements and/or detections of the orientation sensor 130 and the atleast one IR sensor 134. In one or more embodiments of the invention,the activations and/or deactivations of one or more of the lightcomponents 124 can encompass multiple predetermined modes of operationfor the smart headlamp system 105. In such an embodiment, the lightcontroller 132 can toggle the smart headlamp system 105 between thepredetermined modes of operation based on the measurements and/ordetections of the orientation sensor 130 and the at least one IR sensor134.

It is to be appreciated that this particular arrangement of modules 130,131, 132 and 134 illustrated in the processor 120 of the FIG. 1embodiment is presented by way of example only, and alternativearrangements can be used in one or more other embodiments of theinvention. For example, the functionality associated with the modules130, 131, 132 and 134 in other embodiments can be combined into a singlemodule, or separated across a number of modules. By way of furtherexample, multiple distinct processors can be used to implement differentones of the modules 130, 131, 132 and 134, or portions thereof.

Also, at least portions of the orientation sensor 130, angle sensor 131,light controller 132, and at least one IR sensor 134 can be implementedat least in part in the form of software that is stored in memory 122and executed by processor 120.

By way of example, in one or more embodiments of the invention, theprocessor 120 can request data from the orientation sensor 130 and theat least one IR sensor 134 on a periodic and/or consistent basis (forexample, the processor can request data from the orientation sensor tentimes per second, thirty times a second, one hundred times per second,etc.). The process can, for example, adjust the receivedorientation-related data in connection with one or more motion filteringmechanisms (with as little operational latency as possible), and themode of the smart headlamp system can be adjusted via the lightcontroller 132 based on the filtered data and the received IR data. Suchmotion filtering, in one or more embodiments of the invention, caninclude, for example, implementing a low-pass filter.

Additionally, one or more embodiments can include combining signals fromtwo or more orientation sensors 130. Such an action can be referred toas motion fusion, which is implemented, for example, using filters suchas Mahony and/or Madgwick filters, which includes using two or moreorientation sensors and combining the signals therefrom together in away that is robust to interference or drift. Also, at least oneembodiment can include using multiple orientation sensorssimultaneously. In such an embodiment, the filtering and/or combining ofthe signals is carried out via processor 120 (also referred to in one ormore embodiments as an MCU) and/or via a digital motion processor (DMP)that is housed in an integrated circuit (IC) of the orientationsensor(s) 130 (such as one or more IMUs), which processes the signalsprior to the signals being transmitted to an MCU.

Further, an example process utilizing orientation sensor 130, IRsensor(s) 134, and light controller 132 of the smart headlamp system 105is described below, including in connection with the description of FIG.12.

It is to be understood that the particular set of elements shown in FIG.1 is depicted by way of illustrative example only, and in one or moreother embodiments of the invention, additional or alternative elementsmay be used.

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams illustrating side angles of a smartheadlamp system in an example embodiment of the invention. By way ofillustration, FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B depict a main assembly 250 and aratcheting cradle 252 of smart headlamp system 205. By way merely ofexample, the main assembly 250 and ratcheting cradle 252 can be composedof acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and polycarbonate (ABS+PC) or otherplastic material. As detailed further herein, the ratcheting cradle 252includes, in one or more embodiments, multiple stops (also referred toherein as detents) to segment and/or partition the rotation of the mainassembly 250 into discrete increments.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of smart headlampsystem hardware components in an example embodiment of the invention. Byway of illustration, FIG. 3 depicts an IR-transmissive lens array 301(e.g., a mid-IR transmissive telescopic lens array), a first (larger)secondary light diffuser 302 (translucent lens) and a second (smaller)secondary light diffuser 304 (translucent lens). Additionally, FIG. 3depicts a front cover component 306 (which can be, for example, aback-painted clear front cover), a housing 338 (for example, with acolor accent over-mold), an on/off button 310 (for example, a soft-touchthermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that is water-proof sealed), and a (red)tinted down-light lens 312 (which can be, for example, water clearand/or tinted red).

Also, FIG. 3 depicts a parabolic spot light reflector 314 (which can be,for example, water clear), a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 316with surface mounted diode (SMD) light sources, and a side-mounted modebutton 342 (which can include, for example, a soft-touch TPE that iswater-proof sealed). Further, FIG. 3 depicts a rear housing and/orbattery box 318 (which can include, for example, a hinge), a batterydoor 340 (which can include, for example, a mating hinge in relation tothe rear housing/battery box 318), and one or more batteries 344 (suchas, for example, AAA batteries).

As also illustrated, FIG. 3 depicts a headband bracket 346 (for example,with a ratchet feature), a textile headband 328 (optionally with printedgraphics, for example), and a headband coupler buckle 348 (notexplicitly shown).

In one or more embodiments, button 310 can include an on/offfunctionality and/or can also encompass a multi-modal user interface(UI) switch, which can be included as one or more buttons. In an exampleembodiment, one button for power (on/off) is included and one button formanual mode selection is included. Additionally, in at least oneembodiment, texture can be incorporated on such buttons to facilitatedistinction between the buttons from a tactile perspective of the user.For example, an example embodiment (such as depicted in FIG. 6 via topbutton 610) can include a single button featuring multiple (e.g., three)bumps for texture/grip/feel.

Further, in one or more embodiments of the invention, a given number(such as two) of taps of the power button can turn off the smartheadlamp system, while an additional given number of taps of the powerbutton turns the smart headlamp system back on. Also, in one or moreembodiments, pressing one button effects how one or more other buttonsfunction. Such an embodiment additionally includes a calibrationprocedure related to assigning one or more specific functions to one ormore specific buttons.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a side angle of a smart headlamp systemin an example embodiment of the invention. By way of illustration, FIG.4 depicts a magnet 460 positioned within the ratcheting cradle 452 ofsmart headlamp system 405. As further depicted and described herein, theratcheting cradle 452, in one or more embodiments, carries a hall effectsensor (which is positioned within the main assembly 450 but notexplicitly illustrated in FIG. 4) farther from the magnet 460. By way ofexample, the more downward that the smart headlamp system 405 points,the farther the distance between the magnet 460 and hall effect sensor.

By way of example, in one or more embodiments, by engaging a calibrationroutine, the smart headlamp system takes a reading of the angle of thesystem 405 when the user is resting his or her head at a neutral spineposition. This calibration value is then stored in memory (of system405). The ratcheting cradle 452 carries the hall effect sensor fartheraway from the magnet 460, reducing the field strength measured by thehall effect sensor. That is, the more downward that the smart headlampsystem 405 points, the farther the distance between the magnet 460 andthe hall effect sensor. By comparing the measured field strength to alook-up table of field strengths measured at various increments of theratcheting cradle 452, at least one embodiment can determine the presentangle of the ratcheting cradle 452. Because the ratcheting cradle 452(containing the magnet 460) is affixed to the user's head by an elasticband, by subtracting the angle of the ratcheting cradle 452 from theangle of the main assembly 450 determined by the IMU, and furthersubtracting the calibration value previously stored in memory, theabsolute angle of the user's head can be determined.

In at least one embodiment, to ensure a reliable user experienceregardless of the actual angle of the ratcheting cradle 452, thisabsolute angle of the user's head is used throughout the system'scalculations in determining when to turn-on (or intensify) and turn-off(or dim) one or more lights in conjunction with the LoBeams routine suchas described herein, as well as to override such methods.

A hall effect sensor, as further detailed herein, detects the fieldstrength of the magnet 460, which varies at each detent of theratcheting cradle 452. In one or more embodiments, the angle at eachdetent is stored, and the angle of the current detent is calculated bycomparing the measured field strength of the magnet 460 to a table ofvalues stored in memory (as noted above).

FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are diagrams illustrating transparent views of sideangles of a smart headlamp system in an example embodiment of theinvention. By way of illustration, FIG. 5A depicts a main assembly 550of smart headlamp system 505, and within main assembly 550 is depictedhall effect sensor 562, IR sensor 534, LED 564, and (optionally) photodetector 566 (all of which are illustrated in a side profile of a PCB inFIG. 5A). For example, the IR sensor 534 can encompass a surface mounttechnology (SMT) component. By way of illustration, FIG. 5B depicts mainassembly 550 (within which is depicted hall effect sensor 562) andratcheting cradle 552 (within which is depicted magnet 560).

One or more embodiments of the invention, in conjunction with and/or inlieu of implementing one or more hall effect sensors, can includeimplementing one or more other short range sensing techniques/mechanismssuch as, for example, an IR detector, an ultrasonic range finder, one ormore mechanical reed switches, a rotary encoder interfacing with theratcheting cradle (such as 552 in FIG. 5B), a time of flight sensingapparatus, etc. Accordingly, such embodiments can include implementingany sensing system that measures, for example, the distance between thebuckle and/or face plate of a smart headlamp system and the mainassembly (such as 550 in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B) for the purposes ofdetermining the relative angle between the main assembly 550 and theratcheting cradle 552 for the purposes of determining the overall anglebetween the main assembly 550 and the user's forehead. In one or moreembodiments, such a determination can be carried out in conjunction withan individual offset value achieved through a calibration routineinitiated by the user, wherein the anatomical angle of the user'sforehead is calculated, and this calculated value is stored in memory.Accordingly, in such an embodiment, the system 505 detects the user'shead angle, and in particular, the variance of the user's head anglefrom the state of a neutral spine position, which can be considered thenatural state of a user looking forward without looking up or down.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating exploded views of smart headlamp systemhardware components in an example embodiment of the invention. By way ofillustration, FIG. 6 depicts a front bevel component 670, a diffuser602, an LED mount 672 (which includes an opening which interfaces withIR-transmissive lens array 601), side buttons 642-1 and 642-2, a topbutton 610, main assembly 650, an IMU 630, hall effect sensor 662, rearhousing 674, magnet 660, and ratcheting cradle 652. As detailed herein,in one or more embodiments, the IMU 630 can include an accelerometerwith one or more additional sensors (such as a gyroscope and/or amagnetometer), with or without an onboard processor, and such an IMUmeasures a body's specific force and angular rate, and/or the magneticfield surrounding the body.

Additionally, FIG. 6 depicts the IR-transmissive lens array 601 (e.g., amid-IR transmissive telescopic lens array), downward-facing lens 612,photo detector 666, processor 620 as well as main (forward-facing) LED664-1, red (forward-facing) LED 664-2, red (downward-facing) LED 664-3,and at least one IR sensor 634.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an exploded view of smart headlampsystem hardware components in an example embodiment of the invention. Byway of illustration, FIG. 7 depicts a front bevel component 770, adiffuser panel 702, an LED mount 772 which includes an opening whichinterfaces with IR-transmissive lens array 701 (e.g., a mid-IRtransmissive telescopic lens array), side buttons 742-1 and 742-2, a topbutton 710, and main assembly 750. FIG. 7 also depicts photo detector766, main (forward-facing) LED 764-1, red (forward-facing) LED 764-2,red (downward-facing) LED 764-3, at least one IR sensor 734, and PCB716. Further, FIG. 7 depicts processor 720, IMU 730, hall effect sensor762, rear housing 774, magnet 760, and ratcheting cradle 752.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities (modes) inan example embodiment of the invention, FIG. 8 depicts use case example880, which shows an interaction between magnet 860 and hall effectsensor 862. FIG. 8 also depicts use case example 882, which shows aninteraction between magnet 860 and hail effect sensor 862 wherein aminimum distance is maintained between the two components.

As further detailed herein, in one or more embodiments of the invention,illumination modality selections can involve user-selected (manual) modechanges or automatic mode changes. With respect to modes, at least oneembodiment of the invention can include at least three modes: a LoBeams(or social) mode, a classic (or navigation) mode, and a night vision (orred) mode. As illustrated in more detail in FIG. 10, the classic(navigation (nav)) mode can involve full (or enhanced) brightness fromthe light source(s) that direct(s) light forward and/or straight-ahead.Additionally, the LoBeams (social) mode can involve redirecting lightvia one or more lenses (for example, downward-facing lens 612 in FIG. 6)and/or via one or more auxiliary LEDs (for example, red(downward-facing) LED 664-3 in FIG. 6).

Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, such functionality is derivedat least in part from the ability of the smart headlamp system to trackthe angle of the user's head. For instance, if the user is determinedand/or presumed to be looking at another person (as inferred by thesystem detecting that the user has his or her head at approximately aneutral spine position, that is, neither looking very much up norlooking very much down), one or more forward-facing lights (such as, forexample, LED 664-1 in FIG. 6) are dimmed or turned-off (to preventtemporarily impairing the vision of that other person).

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities (modes) inan example embodiment of the invention. By way of illustration, FIG. 9depicts use case example 990, which shows a detent of 10 degrees betweenmagnet 960 and hall effect sensor 962, as well as use case example 992,which shows a detent of 20 degrees between magnet 960 and hall effectsensor 962. Additionally, FIG. 9 depicts use case example 994, whichshows a detent of 30 degrees between magnet 960 and hall effect sensor962, and use case example 996, which shows a detent of a maximum anglesize of 40 degrees between magnet 960 and hall effect sensor 962. Asillustrated in the FIG. 9 example embodiment, a detent is a device usedto mechanically resist or stop the rotation or movement of a separatecomponent. In example FIG. 9 embodiment, the detent is used tointentionally divide the rotation of a headlamp hinge mechanism intodiscrete increments of approximately ten degrees, for a maximum detentangle of 40 degrees and a minimum detent angle of zero degrees. Thismeans that a user may adjust the angle of the headlamp away from theirforehead to any of the five available positions: zero degrees detent,ten degrees detent, twenty degrees detent, thirty degrees tenet, orforty degrees detent.

As detailed herein, and in connection with the example use casesdepicted in FIG. 9, one or more embodiments include calculating theangle of tilt of a user's head (wearing the smart headlamp system). Forexample, if it is determined that a user is facing another individual,the smart headlamp system will switch-off and/or decrease the intensityof one or more main forward-facing LEDs (for example, 664-1 in FIG. 6)and activate and/or increase the intensity of one or more secondary LEDs(for example, 664-3 in FIG. 6). For calculating the angle of tilt of auser's head, at least one embodiment includes using a hall effect sensor(for example, 962 in FIG. 9) and magnet (for example, 960 in FIG. 9)embedded in the smart headlamp system to adjust angle calculations.Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, a user can adjust the smartheadlamp system to his or her preferred angle and still utilize thefunctionalities detailed herein.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating various use case modalities (modes) inan example embodiment of the invention. By way of illustration, FIG. 10depicts use case modality 1011, wherein one or more main forward-facinglight sources are activated, and wherein the user's head is angled at anupward angle and no IR radiation is detected within the given proximityof the headlamp. In use case modality 1013, one or more mainforward-facing light sources are activated, while the user's head isangled at an upward angle and IR radiation is detected within the givenproximity of the headlamp. In use case modality 1015, one or more mainforward-facing light sources are activated, while the user's head is ina neutral position and no IR radiation is detected within the givenproximity of the headlamp.

Additionally, in use case modality 1017, one or more main forward-facinglight sources are de-activated, while the user's head is in a neutralposition and IR radiation is detected within the given proximity of theheadlamp. Further, in use case modality 1019, one or more mainforward-facing light sources are activated, while the user's head isangled at a downward angle and no IR radiation is detected within thegiven proximity of the headlamp. In use case modality 1021, one or moremain forward-facing light sources are activated, while the user's headis angled at a downward angle and IR radiation is detected within thegiven proximity of the headlamp.

In one or more embodiments, LoBeams mode can be activated, for example,via a dedicated button or switch on the smart headlamp system (such asbuttons 610, 642-1, 642-2, etc. in FIG. 6). When social mode isactivated (e.g., use case modality 1017 in FIG. 10), as noted above, amain forward-facing light can be deactivated and a downward-facing (red)light can be activated, such that the downward-facing light illuminatesthe user's face and allows another individual to read/visualize facialexpressions of the user (if needed).

Additionally or alternatively, there may be instances when a userwearing a smart headlamp system in LoBeams mode will want to overridethe LoBeams mode without turning off the system altogether. In such ause case, the smart headlamp system can enter an override mode via theuser, for example, looking up (that is, tilting his or her head at asufficient upward angle) for a predefined duration of time. Once thesmart headlamp system registers the upward angle, the system willprovide feedback (to the user) that override mode has been activated(and the system will act as a conventional headlamp). To exit overridemode in such an embodiment, the user can, for example, look down (thatis, tilt his or her head at a sufficient downward angle) for apredefined duration of time. Once the smart headlamp system registersthe downward angle, the system will provide feedback (to the user) thatoverride mode has been deactivated and the system returns to LoBeamsmode.

Also, one or more embodiments can include learning, via application ofone or more machine learning techniques, user gesture routines to beused on connection with one or more automated actions. By way ofillustration of such an embodiment, consider an example implementationand/or use case where a user (of the smart headlamp system) inputs asequence of button presses and/or holds, and/or moves the headlamp in aparticular sequence of movements to trigger a preset gesture, whichtriggers the smart headlamp system to activate a learning mode duringwhich the smart headlamp system tracks the movement of the user's head(which can be referred to herein as a “gesture”). After defining thisgesture through their his or her movement, the user inputs a buttonpress or a sequence of button presses to exit the learning mode, afterwhich the smart headlamp system saves and/or stores the learned gestureto non-volatile memory (within the smart headlamp system). By way ofexample, the gesture may be saved as time series data points of one ormore of the sensor outputs of the smart headlamp system during the timeperiod during which the device was in learning mode.

When the smart headlamp system is on and not in learning mode, thesystem can be comparing the current sensor output to the stored timeseries values, using one or more machine learning techniques to carryout the analysis. When the user performs a gesture that is sufficientlysimilar to the learned gesture, the smart headlamp system triggers achange in the mode of operation, for example, transitioning from low tohigh in terms of light output intensity, or transitioning from off toon, or on to off. Additionally, in such an embodiment, multiple gesturescan be learned and stored by the smart headlamp system.

In connection with an embodiment such as detailed above, the one or moremachine learning techniques can include, for example, a recurrent neuralnetwork (RNN) such as an Elman network and/or a Jordan network.Additionally or alternatively, the one or more machine learningtechniques can include an artificial feedforward neural network such as,for example, a multilayer perceptron (MLP) network. Further, in such anembodiment, the one or more machine learning techniques can additionallyor alternatively include one or more backpropagation through time (BPTT)techniques, one or more long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, and/or ahybrid convolutional neural network and long short-term memory network(CNN-LSTM). With respect to one or more BPTT techniques, an exampleembodiment can include implementing a truncated BPTT model andconstraining the window for user gestural input in the time domain. Withrespect to one or more LSTM networks, an example embodiment can includeimplementing a stacked LSTM to process a variety of sensor inputs,and/or implementing a bidirectional LSTM to learn one or more complexgestures and efficiently and reliably classify user inputs. Further, anexample embodiment can include implementing a hybrid CNN-LSTM network ifsignificantly more than one IR input pixel is to be processed, whereinsuch an embodiment can utilize a CNN Model for feature extraction and aLSTM Model for interpreting the features across time steps.

Accordingly, in one or more embodiments of the invention, the LoBeamsmode can include turning off and/or decreasing the intensity of thesystem's high-output LED (also referred to herein as a “high beam”) whenit is detected that the system is oriented in a particular manner(corresponding with the user's head being tilted at a certaininclination, for example). Also, in at least one embodiment of theinvention, LoBearns mode functionality can be manually overridden by auser tilting his or her head on the opposite axis (for example, tiltingone's head toward his or her left shoulder or right shoulder to acertain degree), and/or by the user pressing a particular configurationof one or more buttons on the smart headlamp system. Further, in one ormore embodiments of the invention, LoBeams mode can be the default modefor the smart headlamp system.

As also detailed herein, in at least one embodiment of the invention,classic mode can include conventional headlamp functionality, and nightvision mode can include activation of only a red LED (while deactivatingall other LEDs of the smart headlamp system).

Additionally, in one or more embodiments of the invention, classic modecan include a temporal element (for example, a time-out), wherein thesmart headlamp system returns to LoBeams mode automatically after thecompletion of a predetermined temporal period (5 minutes, for example).Further, in one or more embodiments of the invention, classic mode canbe manually locked-in by the user. For example, if a user turns onclassic mode a second time within a given temporal period (for example60 seconds) of classic mode automatically expiring and reverting toLoBeams mode, the smart headlamp system will then remain in classic modeuntil the mode is manually changed by the user. Alternatively and/oradditionally, classic mode can be locked-in by the user pressing aparticular configuration of one or more buttons on the smart headlampsystem.

As also noted above, in one or more embodiments of the invention, thesmart headlamp system includes a night vision mode, wherein the userelects for the device to not transmit any white light, and allillumination is derived from one or more red LEDs.

Also, at least one embodiment of the invention can include a mechanismfor controlling the brightness of one or more of the light sources ofthe smart headlamp system. For example, in such an embodiment, holdingdown the power button for a predetermined period of time (for examplemore than a few seconds), combined with tilting the smart headlampsystem (via the user tilting his or her head, for example), can enablethe user to set the brightness of a high-output LED (that is, thebrightest light associated with the particular mode—either LoBeams modeor Classic mode) to any one of two or more preset brightness levels.

Also, at least one embodiment can include a halo mechanism, whereinlight is diverted downward, illuminating the user's/wearer's face. Byway of example, when a user is looking at another person (at a campingsituation, a festival situation, etc.), while the user does not want toshine light into the eyes of that other person, it is also likely truethat the other person may want to identify the user and/or be able tosee the facial expressions of the user. Accordingly, in one or moreembodiments of the invention, in LoBeams mode, the smart headlamp systemcan also, while in the low-light operational setting (for example, whenthe system detects a head inclination of the user that indicates thatthe user is looking at another person at eye-level), cast a (soft) lightdown upon the user's face (that is, the user wearing the smartheadlamp). Additionally, in one or more embodiments of the invention,this light cast down upon the user's face can be derived from anadditional red LED (that is not turned on during night vision (red)mode). Such a red LED in such an embodiment can automatically be turnedon (while the smart headlamp system is in LoBeams mode) when thehigh-output LED of the smart headlamp is turned off (that is, when thesystem detects a head inclination of the wearing user that indicatesthat the user is looking at another person (at eye-level)).

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the smart headlamp systemcan include one or more photo-sensors that detect the brightness oflight. Using such photo-sensors, the smart headlamp can detect theamount and/or intensity of light being directed at the smart headlamp,and if such detected light exceeds a given amount and/or intensitylevel, the smart headlamp can respond by blinking and/or flashing one ormore of the LEDs of the smart headlamp. Such blinking and/or flashing ofthe one or more LEDs can serve to indicate to another user or individualthat a light is being directed at the user's eye-level.

Further, as detailed herein, at least one embodiment includesincorporating one or more pyroelectric detectors and/or sensors into thesmart headlamp to detect the likely presence of another human being viadetection of IR radiation (e.g., associated with body heat being emittedby another human being) within a given field and/or range of the smartheadlamp. Such an embodiment can include precluding the need for theuser (i.e., the wearer of the smart headlamp) to manually turn LoBeamsmode on and off.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating positions of a smart headlamp systemalong various vectors in an example embodiment of the invention. By wayof illustration, FIG. 11 depicts a user wearing the smart headlampsystem. Additionally, FIG. 11 depicts various movement arcs and/orangles along various vectors. Specifically, as depicted by label (A),the IMU of smart headlamp system computes the angle of the main housingof system relative to the gravity vector. Additionally, as depicted bylabel (B), using a hall effect sensor, the system computes the detentangle of the main housing relative to the strap buckle/headband(affixing system to the user's head). Also, as depicted by label (C),when the user is standing relatively still with a neutral/upright spine(as opposed to bending forward as pictured in FIG. 11), a one-timecalibration procedure may be initiated by the user, whereby thecalibration procedure stores in memory the angle of the plane of theuser's forehead relative to the head posture vector. In one or moreembodiments, during such a calibration procedure, the head posturevector and the gravity vector are assumed to be equal. Further, asdepicted by label (D), knowing the angles computed via (A), (B), and(C), as detailed above, angle (D) may be calculated, whereby angle (D)is the inclination of the user's head relative to the user's head angleat a neutral spine position. In at least one embodiment, this value,(D), is used for one or more LoBeams mode activations and deactivations,as further described herein. Additionally, label (E) represents thefield of view of the primary and/or front facing lighting source(s) ofthe lighting system/headlamp.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a process for implementing a smart headlampsystem in an example embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment,the process includes steps 1202 through 1204. These steps are assumed tobe performed by the processor 120 utilizing its modules 130 and 132.

Step 1202 includes automatically measuring orientation values attributedto a lighting system device worn by a human user, wherein the lightingsystem device comprises one or more lighting sources and one or moreinfrared radiation sensors. The orientation values can include, forexample, inclination values indicating horizontal movement of thelighting system and/or tilt values indicating vertical movement of thelighting system.

Step 1204 includes automatically measuring infrared radiation valuesdetected within a given proximity of the lighting system device. Atleast one embodiment additionally includes detecting infrared radiationvalues within the given proximity of the lighting system device. In oneor more embodiments, detecting infrared radiation values can includedetecting a specified subset of radiation values (e.g., mid-IR values)within the given proximity of the lighting system device. Also, in atleast one embodiment, the given proximity of the lighting system devicecan include a field of view of a given range extending outward from afrontal portion of the lighting system device in a directioncorresponding to a direction of illumination from at least one of theone or more lighting sources. Additionally or alternatively, the givenproximity of the lighting system device can include a field of view ofat least one of the one or more lighting sources that matches a field ofview of at least one of the one or more infrared sensors

Step 1206 includes automatically modulating one or more of the lightingsources based at least in part on (i) the measured orientation valuesand (ii) the measured infrared radiation values. Automaticallymodulating can include, for example, automatically activating one ormore of the lighting sources, automatically de-activating one or more ofthe lighting sources, automatically increasing an intensity level of oneor more of the lighting sources, and/or automatically decreasing anintensity level of one or more of the lighting sources. Additionally, inat least one embodiment, automatically modulating can includeautomatically modulating one or more of the lighting sources upon adetermination that the measured orientation values reach at least onepredetermined range of angle values. In such an embodiment, the at leastpredetermined range of angle values can be pre-programmed oruser-defined. Further, in one or more embodiments, the predeterminedrange of angle values can be different for entering social mode thanexisting social mode. For example, social mode can be deactivated/exited(e.g., high beam light(s) can be activated) when the orientation anglevalue approximates 30 degrees (that is, when the smart headlamp systemuser looks down at approximately a 30-degree angle), while the socialmode can activated/entered (e.g., high beam light(s) can be deactivatedand a downward facing red auxiliary LED can be activated) when theorientation angle value approximates 20 degrees (that is, when the smartheadlamp system user looks up at approximately a 20-degree angle). Suchan embodiment aims to avoid inadvertently vacillating between the twomodes if the user happens to maintain his or her head angle on the cuspof the relevant degree designation. By configuring a different value forexiting a mode than to enter the mode, flickering and/or related issuescan be avoided.

The techniques depicted in FIG. 12 can additionally include enablinguser-configuration of one or more intensity levels of one or more of thelighting sources. In one or more embodiments, such enabling ofuser-configuration of one or more intensity levels of one or more of thelighting sources comprises establishing a mechanism includes (i)engagement of one or more buttons for a predetermined period of timecombined with (ii) tilting of the lighting system device within apredetermined angle range.

Also, in at least one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus caninclude one or more lighting sources, one or more power sources, one ormore orientation sensors, one or more infrared radiation sensors, atleast one memory, and at least one processor operably coupled to the atleast one memory, the one or more orientation sensors, and the one ormore infrared radiation sensors. In such an apparatus, the at least oneprocessor is configured for automatically measuring, via the one or moreorientation sensors, orientation values attributed to the apparatus;automatically measuring, via the one or more infrared radiation sensors,infrared radiation values detected within a given proximity of theapparatus; and automatically modulating at least one of the one or morelighting sources based on the measured orientation values and themeasured infrared radiation values.

In such an apparatus, the one or more lighting sources can include oneor more narrow beam lighting sources, one or more wide beam lightingsources, one or more medium beam lighting sources, one or more red lightlighting sources, one or more white light lighting sources, and/or oneor more light diffusers. Additionally, in such an apparatus, the one ormore power sources can include one or more batteries, and the one ormore orientation sensors can include one or more gyroscopes, one or moremagnetometers, one or more hall effect sensors, and/or one or moreaccelerometers (which can include one or more single axisaccelerometers, one or more dual axis accelerometers, and/or one or moretriple axis accelerometers). Further, such an apparatus can include oneor more angle sensors. In one or more embodiments, the one or more anglesensors can include one or more hall effect sensors (and wherein, insuch an embodiment, the apparatus further includes one or more magnets),one or more encoders, one or more mechanical switches, a series of reedswitches, one or more optical sensors (e.g., IR reflectance and/or timeof flight), etc. In such an embodiment, the one or more orientationsensors can be implemented within a main housing that may be rotatedrelative to a ratcheting cradle, bracket, strap, or other headpiece(e.g., a helmet mount), and the one or more angle sensors enablesdetermination of the difference between (i) the ratcheting cradle,bracket, strap, or other headpiece and (ii) the rotated main housing.

Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the one or more orientationsensors include multiple orientation sensors, and wherein at least afirst of the multiple orientation sensors measures an angle of theapparatus relative to a forehead of a user of the apparatus, and whereinat least a second of the multiple orientation sensors measures an angleof the apparatus relative to gravity.

Also, in such an apparatus, the one or more infrared radiation sensorscan include two or more infrared radiation sensors that include (i) atleast one infrared radiation sensor sensing in a fixed forward-facingdirectionality, with respect to the apparatus, regardless ofdirectionality of the one or more lighting sources; and (ii) at leastone infrared radiation sensor sensing within a field of view thatmatches a field of view of at least one of the one or more lightingsources. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more infraredradiation sensors can include a matrix of two or more infrared radiationsensors and/or an array of two or more thermal sensors.

Further, in one or more embodiments, such an apparatus can additionallyinclude one or more manual haptic input mechanics, one or more headbandcomponents, and/or one or more voltage regulators.

Other techniques can be used in association with one or more embodimentsof the invention. Accordingly, the particular processing operations andother functionality described in conjunction with FIG. 12 are presentedby way of illustrative example only, and should not be construed aslimiting the scope of the invention in any way. For example, theordering of the process steps may be varied in one or more otherembodiments of the invention, or certain steps may be performedconcurrently with one another rather than serially.

The above-described example embodiments of the invention providesignificant advantages relative to conventional approaches. For example,one or more embodiments of the invention can include automaticallymodifying the intensity level of light being emitted by a headlamp basedon the head inclination of the wearing user, facilitating interactionswith other individuals as well as activities not involving other humans.

It is to be appreciated that the foregoing advantages are illustrativeof advantages provided in certain embodiments, and need not be presentin other embodiments.

It should again be emphasized that the embodiments of the inventiondescribed herein are presented for purposes of illustration only. Manyvariations may be made in the particular arrangements shown. Moreover,the assumptions made herein in the context of describing one or moreillustrative embodiments of the invention should not be construed aslimitations or requirements of the invention, and need not apply in oneor more other embodiments of the invention. Numerous other alternativeembodiments within the scope of the appended claims will be readilyapparent to those skilled in the art.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method, the methodcomprising: automatically measuring orientation values attributed to alighting system device worn by a human user, wherein the lighting systemdevice comprises one or more lighting sources and one or more infraredradiation sensors; automatically measuring infrared radiation valuesdetected within a given proximity of the lighting system device; andautomatically modulating one or more of the lighting sources based atleast in part on (i) the measured orientation values and (ii) themeasured infrared radiation values; wherein the method is carried out byat least one computing device.
 2. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1, further comprising: detecting infrared radiation values withinthe given proximity of the lighting system device.
 3. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein detecting infraredradiation values comprises detecting at least one specified subset ofinfrared radiation values within the given proximity of the lightingsystem device.
 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, whereinthe given proximity of the lighting system device comprises a field ofview of a given range extending outward from a frontal portion of thelighting system device in a direction corresponding to a direction ofillumination from at least one of the one or more lighting sources. 5.The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the given proximityof the lighting system device comprises a field of view of at least oneof the one or more lighting sources that matches a field of view of atleast one of the one or more infrared sensors.
 6. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the orientation valuescomprise at least one of inclination values indicating horizontalmovement of the lighting system and tilt values indicating verticalmovement of the lighting system.
 7. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1, wherein automatically modulating comprises automaticallyactivating one or more of the lighting sources.
 8. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein automatically modulatingcomprises automatically de-activating one or more of the lightingsources.
 9. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, whereinautomatically modulating comprises automatically increasing an intensitylevel of one or more of the lighting sources.
 10. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein automatically modulatingcomprises automatically decreasing an intensity level of one or more ofthe lighting sources.
 11. The computer-implemented method of claim 1,wherein automatically modulating comprises automatically modulating oneor more of the lighting sources upon a determination that the measuredorientation values reach at least one range of angle values.
 12. Anapparatus comprising: one or more lighting sources; one or more powersources; one or more orientation sensors; one or more infrared radiationsensors; at least one memory; and at least one processor operablycoupled to the at least one memory, the one or more orientation sensors,and the one or more infrared radiation sensors, wherein the at least oneprocessor is configured for: automatically measuring orientation valuesattributed to the apparatus; automatically measuring infrared radiationvalues detected within a given proximity of the apparatus; andautomatically modulating at least one of the one or more lightingsources based at least in part on (i) the measured orientation valuesand (ii) the measured infrared radiation values.
 13. The apparatus ofclaim 12, wherein the one or more infrared radiation sensors comprisetwo or more infrared radiation sensors comprising: at least one infraredradiation sensor sensing in a fixed forward-facing directionality, withrespect to the apparatus, regardless of directionality of the one ormore lighting sources; and at least one infrared radiation sensorsensing within a field of view that matches a field of view of at leastone of the one or more lighting sources.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12,wherein the one or more infrared radiation sensors comprise a matrix oftwo or more infrared radiation sensors.
 15. The apparatus of claim 12,wherein the one or more infrared radiation sensors comprise an array oftwo or more thermal sensors.
 16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein theone or more lighting sources comprise at least one of (i) one or morenarrow beam lighting sources, (ii) one or more wide beam lightingsources, (iii) one or more medium beam lighting sources, (iv) one ormore red light lighting sources, and (v) one or more white lightlighting sources.
 17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the one or moreorientation sensors comprise at least one of one or more accelerometers,one or more gyroscopes, and one or more magnetometers.
 18. The apparatusof claim 17, wherein the one or more accelerometers comprise at leastone of (i) one or more single axis accelerometers, (ii) one or more dualaxis accelerometers, and (iii) one or more triple axis accelerometers.19. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising: one or more anglesensors.
 20. A non-transitory processor-readable storage medium havingstored therein program code of one or more software programs, whereinthe program code when executed by at least one processing device causesthe at least one processing device: to automatically measure orientationvalues attributed to a lighting system device worn by a human user,wherein the lighting system device comprises one or more lightingsources and one or more infrared radiation sensors; to automaticallymeasure infrared radiation values detected within a given proximity ofthe lighting system device; and to automatically modulate one or more ofthe lighting sources based at least in part on (i) the measuredorientation values and (ii) the measured infrared radiation values.